Heels Are A Girl's Best Friend

It finally happened — spring has arrived in D.C., which means it’s officially the start of sandal season.  And that means abiding by one hard and fast rule that is utterly unbreakable in my book.

You MUST have a pedicure if you’re going to expose your toes. I don’t care if you shell out big bucks at a fancy salon or have your best girl friend paint your tootsies, but there is just no excuse for walking around with bared, gnarly winter feet. Nothing grosses me out more than someone’s too-long, yellowing toes peeking out from a pair of sandals.

Personally, I’m a salon type of gal but weekly appointments are an extravagance in this sucky economy, so I decided to try and bargain the cost of my summer-must to stretch my beauty dollars.  And surprise, surprise it worked!  Since salons and spas want to keep customers happy (and coming back), and I’m a regular customer, they agreed to five free pedis in exchange for a mani-pedi booking for me and 15 of my friends.  I’ll be footloose and pedis for free!

Bottom line: Ask.  A simple “Hey, money’s tight–can you give me a break?” can do the trick,” especially if you are a regular customer.  Here are some other tips that might help you get a wallet-friendly pedi deal:

• Ask to speak to the salon manager or owner to negotiate; definitely play the “I’m such a loyal customer” card (but only if it’s true).
• Be reasonable.  Don’t ask for the moon and expect to get it for free.
• You might be able to get a deal if you bundle multiple services like a haircut and a mani-pedi.
• It helps if you’re willing to book and pay for a block of appointments in advance; they might give you a “special” like book four, get the fifth one free.
• See if there are rewards for referrals.
• You’re more likely to have success if you’re willing to book your appointments for the salons slow periods (that means Fridays and Saturdays are out, sorry).
• Find out what other discounts or promotions they offer.  Many salons offer training nights with wannabe stylists for 50% or more off regular services.  Some provide discounts on year-end or end-of-season inventory.
• Sign up for the salon’s newsletter for emails or mailings to find out about specials.

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